new to ball pythons, snake owning in general

[5snakes]

Hello, I am 5 snakes. I have been registered to this forum for only a day, but I have been a python and boa keeper for around 7 years. I might have some advice for you. I am by no means an expert, but I hope you find this helpful.
All of my snakes have hides. I made "caves" for each of them. I used non toxic expandable foam and sprayed it around the appropiate size container. (such as a tupperware container or for my burm, a rubbermaid tote. Here is an example of My Burm`s "cave."
I highly recomend under the tank heater pads. you can get them from any online store such as Dr. Foster`s or Reptiledirect.com for a fair price. DO NOT use a heat rock or anything that closely resembles one. You WILL burn your snake. The water dish you see in this picture is done in the same idea as the cave I made.It is just a rubbermaid "leftover" container without the cover. Other hides can be made from a hollowed out log cut in half, making sure it is boiled or very seriously sanitized, as you would not want your beloved snake to contract mites. You say you are new to this, so I am trying to offer you as much advise as I can think of. You want to have your basic UV bulbs installed along with maybe some sort of humidifieror mister. You don`t want a dry snake. This is a little tricky, because you don`t want him to be too wet either. This will create certain bacteria and even fungus. With all the research you have done, I`m sure the proper levels of temp and humidity and soforth you are aware of. different snake that come from a variety of places, but most need quite a moderate humidity level. For substrate I use your average indoor/outdoor carpet...astroturf mats. you can find them in your local $ store for a buck a peice. This eliminates the chance of contracting mites, if you happen to get a bad batch of natural substrate. I find they all do well with the surfaces I use. There is also some new product named "reptile carpet" that you also can buy at most any reptile store online or otherwise. Try to always have a water container that your snake can fit in to soak if he pleases. frequent changing of the water is a must.
Well, this is some advise from me. you can use it or not. I have had quite a bit of trial and error times and I find that basic common sence and studying of your particular snake is always your best bet. Every animal is different, so keep a good eye on your new friend and give him a lot of attention and handling, and both you and your buddy will both enjoy your time together!!! GOOD LUCK!!! Any other ?s, I will be more than happy to do my upmost to give you an educated answer. Enjoy.....5snakes